Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,440 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 77,440, Dental Hygienists in Kentucky earn 18% below the national median of $94,260. Kentucky ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$77,440Hourly estimate
$37.2318% below national median
Difference: -$16,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#47 of 50 statesfor Dental Hygienist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 129,760 |
| #2 | Washington | 125,370 |
| #3 | California | 121,080 |
| #4 | Oregon | 118,280 |
| #5 | Colorado | 106,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Hygienist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $90,290 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,620 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $72,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $98,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $83,270 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297280
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Hygienists.
What education do you need to become a Dental Hygienist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky is 77,440. Salaries range from $60,120 (10th percentile) to $95,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Kentucky earn 18% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 77,440.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 2,140 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://dentistry.ky.gov/.